Event type: Music

Cleopatra, comprised of sisters Cleopatra, Zainam, and Yonah Higgins, burst onto the music scene in the late 1990s as trailblazers in the British pop industry. Hailing from Manchester, England, these talented siblings quickly captivated audiences with their infectious energy, soulful harmonies, and dynamic performances, earning them a special place in music history as the first black British girl group to achieve mainstream success.

Born into a musical family, Cleopatra’s passion for music was nurtured from an early age. Influenced by a diverse range of genres, including R&B, pop, and soul, the sisters honed their vocal talents through years of dedication and practice. Their unique blend of powerhouse vocals, coupled with their charismatic stage presence, set them apart in an industry dominated by boy bands and girl groups. 

In 1998, Cleopatra entered the music scene with their debut single, ‘Cleopatra’s Theme’. The song, characterised by its catchy hooks and infectious beats, became an instant hit, catapulting the group into the spotlight and garnering widespread acclaim. ‘Cleopatra’s Theme’ soared up the charts, reaching the top five in the UK Singles Chart and earning the trio a coveted BRIT Award nomination for Best British Newcomer. 

Buoyed by the success of their debut single, Cleopatra continued to make waves with their debut album, Comin’ Atcha! Released in 1998, the album showcased the group’s versatility and musical prowess, featuring a mix of upbeat anthems, heartfelt ballads, and empowering girl-power anthems. Tracks like ‘Life Ain’t Easy’ and ‘A Touch of Love’ resonated with audiences, solidifying Cleopatra’s status as a pop sensation. 

Throughout their career, Cleopatra remained true to their roots, using their platform to inspire and empower young fans around the world. With their message of self-confidence, resilience, and sisterhood, the group became role models for a generation of aspiring musicians, particularly young women of colour, who saw themselves reflected in Cleopatra’s success. 

Though their time in the spotlight was relatively brief, Cleopatra’s impact on the music industry continues to be felt to this day. Their groundbreaking achievements paved the way for future generations of black British artists, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of pop music. 

Today, Cleopatra’s legacy lives on through their timeless music, which continues to resonate with fans old and new. As a trailblazer and pioneer of British pop, Cleopatra remains a symbol of strength, resilience, and the enduring power of sisterhood in the world of music.

Presented in partnership with BlackFest

The acclaimed project of British producer Martin Jenkins comes to Liverpool’s Capstone Theatre.

Known for his haunting blend of vintage synthesisers, post-punk influences and retro-futurist electronics, Martin Jenkins has built an international following through his distinctive sound that evokes forgotten television broadcasts, library music and the pioneering work of the BBC Radiophonic Workshop. His atmospheric live performances combine nostalgic visuals with analogue-inspired soundscapes, creating an immersive experience that feels both unsettling and strangely familiar.

Jenkins refers to himself as the mysterious and nameless Head Technician in most of his online profiles, and extra detail is taken to make the audio and visual elements of his performances look and sound worn and vintage. 

Pye Corner Audio first came to attention with four volumes of Black Mill Tapes on his own label, Pye Corner Audio Transcription Services. Like his contemporaries Demdike Stare and Ghost Box, Martin seemed to be tapping into some hidden energy current, channeling spirits via electrical means. The pioneering transmissions of the BBC Radiophonic Workshop could be detected lurking within the music’s staticky swirl; so could the ominous throb of John Carpenter’s film soundtracks. 

While the musical landscape has shifted over the years, Pye Corner Audio’s retro-futurist transmissions remain timelessly compelling, resembling a rickety tape transfer of a collective nostalgia, waiting to be rediscovered.”

Born in Kingston, Jamaica, raised in Belfast, KingFast’s musical journey reflects a vibrant blend of his diverse roots. He’s performed at Liverpool Sound City, LIMF, Deva Fest, Nantwich Jazz Festival and Elderflower Fields Festival. KingFast was a finalist in Southport’s Eurovision Calling and his music has been featured in a ‘national jukebox’, playing in major chain stores across the country. He’s been played on numerous stations including Radio City and BBC Merseyside. 

After seeing Snatch Game at Handfest in 2024, we absolutely had to invite them to Outpost! Expect queens playing Punk versions of Drag Race Songs & Gay Pop Bangers, lots of dancing and probably a few insults thrown in your direction. https://www.instagram.com/snatchgamebanduk/   

Support from – Code Break – Essentially our house band. 4 piece not quite hardcore, not quite alternative, not quite indie, feedback lovin’ meffs from Liverpool/Wirral. https://www.instagram.com/codebreakband1/  

The gig will be an early finish (10pm ish) and there’ll be punk rock karaoke afterwards. Doors at 7.30pm, music from around 8pm (set times will go up closer to the date).

The bar and kitchen are open from 4pm, please get down early and support the venue!   £10 on the door, cash only please!

Dickheads not welcome.

Outpost, 77 Renshaw Street, Liverpool, L1 2SJ